Profile Emerging of Norwegian Mass Murderer

A photograph of Norwegian attack suspect Anders Behring Breivik is broadcast by Norwegian television Photo: Reuters

The Norwegian man arrested and charged in connection with the bombing attacks in Oslo has been described by media as a Christian fundamentalist with extreme right-wing views.

Anders Behring Breivik, only 32, had reportedly set up accounts on Twitter and Facebook just a few days prior to the attacks which have killed at least 91 people and wounded many more.

He is described as tall, blonde-haired blue –eyed and dressed in a police uniform during the attacks.

Police said the suspected gunman is talking to them and is eager to explain himself.

On his alleged Facebook page, Breivik said he is an unmarried conservative Christian, with interests in hunting, body building and freemasonry.

The Norwegian newspaper Verdens Gang reported he gravitated towards right-wing extremism in his late 20s and espoused strong nationalistic views.

Police chief Svinung Sponheim said that internet messages posted by Breivik indicated he has some political traits directed toward the right, and anti-Muslim views.” He reportedly posted messages on Christian fundamentalist websites.

Breivik served in the Norwegian military performing national service and has no criminal record.

According to other reports, he grew up in Oslo and studied at the Oslo School of Management. In addition, he is the sole director of Breivik Geofarm, a Norwegian farming company.

Oslo media suggested this firm gave him access to fertilizer, a key ingredient used in bomb-making.